Natalia Stepanova

Moscow

Spotter since 2017

About me

About me
I was born in Siberia (never seen a bear outside a zoo though). Since 2010, I’m a happy Moscow transplant, now working as an editor for an Internet company. I soon learned to take for granted all those fantastic things this city has to offer: great theaters, its growing third wave coffee scene, good food (I keep my personal, regularly updated falafel rating), art spaces.

I like to take long walks around the city – pick a destination, start from the city center and see what Moscow has in store for me (there are usually a few hidden gems to be discovered, or at least some greasy and delicious food to be bought and happily eaten along the way).

Why Moscow
I've witnessed the city become more and more amazing each year. In addition to all that impressive architecture, new awesome places have started popping up: galleries, cafes, music venues.

Somehow this all works together beautifully: skyscrapers next to Soviet heritage next to orthodox churches next to a hip Vietnamese eatery. A bit like hearing “And now for something completely different!” all the time. Also, Moscow is one of the few cities where it’s totally normal for a coffee place to be still open at 22:00 – because people here know that you might need that caffeine fix for enjoying and exploring the city at night.

Where else can you find me online?

My spots (22)

Khachapuri

Georgian cuisine at its best

"Khachapuri" is my favourite Georgian restaurant in Moscow. Huge portions to be shared, fresh produce and I definitely recommend the adjarian khachapuri...

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Restaurants

by

Natalia

Stepanova

Jun 10, 2025

Krasnyi Oktiabr (Red October)

Artsy island

"Krasnyi Oktiabr (Red October)" is a former Moscow chocolate factory. Now, the iconic red brick building are home to clubs, restaurants, galleries...

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Art & culture
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Bars

by

Natalia

Stepanova

Jun 10, 2025

LES

Coffee on the terrace

"LES" in Moscow are serious about coffee. They were one of the first, and are still one of the best. Their terrace might just be one of the cosiest in...

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Coffee & tea

by

Natalia

Stepanova

Jun 10, 2025

Gogol Center

Hip and deep

"Gogol Center" Moscow is in my opinion what a perfect theater should be. They stage both classics and contemporary plays and don't shy away from nudity...

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Art & culture
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Theaters

by

Natalia

Stepanova

Jun 10, 2025

Boston Seafood & Bar

Shrimpapalooza

"Boston Seafood & Bar" Moscow reminds me of my uncle. This restaurant's specialty is their smoked shrimp, but beware: they'll bring you aprons and...

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Restaurants

by

Natalia

Stepanova

Jun 10, 2025

Tsvetnoy

Russian fashion and foods

"Tsvetnoy Central Market" Moscow is a department store, but one with Russian designers and great food. Visit for their baked milk goodies and gift ideas.

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Shopping
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Snacks

by

Natalia

Stepanova

Jun 10, 2025

Svalka

Charity garage sale

"Svalka" Moscow is more than just a second-hand shop: they also help people declutter and raise money for a good cause. It's one of the few good flea...

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Shopping

by

Natalia

Stepanova

Jun 10, 2025

Museum of Russian Impressionism

Bite-sized art

I love Moscow's "Museum of Russian Impressionism", because it never feels overwhelming; I like visiting museums that can be explored within an hour or two.

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Art & culture

by

Natalia

Stepanova

Jun 10, 2025
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